Getting To Know Your Teachers: Jeanette Harshaw
By Ruka Olunlade
Where did you go to school and what did you major in ?
I attended Towson University and received a degree in elementary education. I am currently working on my Masters in Special Education.
What classes do you currently teach at Hudson Global Scholars?
I am a full-time English teacher but I occasionally teach Forensic Science, Biology, Health and Fitness and History.
How did you get into teaching?
At first, I wanted to become a journalist and writer, but I switched to elementary education. Growing up, I always loved helping my friends in school with homework and studying for exams and quizzes. I was brilliant and good at school. For example, I enjoyed making diagrams during my free time to explain science concepts at the age of 10. Making difficult concepts understandable and helping people understand each aspect of a problem was fun for me.
What advice do you have for any students interested in pursuing an education degree?
My advice for students who want to pursue an education degree is that if you want to invest in people, teaching is the best route. The salaries are decent, and the hours are horrendous, but you will impact a child every day. Although sometimes you might not see the impact, I promise you will give back to the community and the world daily.
What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests outside of work?
I am a huge reader! I love reading and it is one of my passions. I love anything I can get my hands on: historical, mystery and fiction. If I had to choose a hobby that represents me it would be reading. When I play Dungeon and Dragons with my family, the character I always create is a troll that lives in a cave and reads book!
I love watching true crime and documentaries with my husband because we find it interesting.
I also adopted a rescue dog, she is a 10-pound poodle mix named Princess. I train her in my free time and love taking her for walks in the wood when it is peaceful.
I also attend church every Sunday and love teaching the one to three-year-olds.
If you could invite three fictional characters to join your hobby/interests, who would they be and why?
Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice. I love the book and her character and how she rebels against societal norms and chooses herself.
Jane Eyre from Jane Eyre. She does through many terrible experiences, but she learns from her hard life and rises above.
Michael Brock from The Street Lawyer. The book and main character made me understand more of my daily life and surroundings.
What is your favorite part about teaching for Hudson Global Scholars?
I enjoy working with international students and seeing perspectives from different cultures. It is incredible to see how students from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds think—especially in how they approach their assignments. I love being a part of their lives, working with them, and encouraging them in any way I can.